Concrete Poured for 'Guardians of the Galaxy' Coaster at Epcot

Earlier this week, 960 trucks’ worth of concrete was poured to create the foundation of what will soon take shape as Epcot’s mammoth “Guardians of the Galaxy”-themed roller coaster attraction. The attraction is on track to become one of the world’s longest enclosed coasters. To house it, a new facility is being built adjacent to the existing Universe of Energy building. 

Check out the video below that the Disney Parks Blog shared today as a behind the scenes look:

The brand new 'Guardians of the Galaxy' roller coaster is set to debut in time for Walt Disney World's (Magic Kingdom) 50th Anniversary. This summer though to get your 'Guardians' fix, Star-Lord and Gamora will take guests on musical journey through the cosmos in "Guardians of the Galaxy - Awesome Mix Live!" that will be a part of 'Incredible Summer' at Epcot's American Gardens Theater.  This will run June 9 through August 19 running 5 times a day.

Stay tuned for future updates on the 'Guardians' coaster coming to Epcot.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Marvel Land Coming to Disneyland in 2020; Tickets on Sale Now for Not-So Scary and Very Merry Christmas Parties

Marvel Land Coming to Disneyland in 2020:

Back in July at the D23 Expo, Disney teased a Marvel Land coming to Disneyland. Very little details were revealed and we were just told to stay tuned for updates in the future. Today, just some of those details were revealed as a fully immersed Marvel Land will be coming to the park beginning in 2020. 

At Disneyland Resort, the new Super Hero-themed land will begin recruiting guests in 2020, with even more new experiences to follow. The Guardians of the Galaxy will be joined by Spider-Man and the Avengers in what will become a completely immersive Super Hero universe, furthering the evolution of Disney California Adventure park. This new land will be anchored by the popular Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT!, in the adjacent space that is currently occupied by “a bug’s land.” “It’s Tough to Be a Bug” closed March 19 to make way for this new heroic experience; the rest of the land will close in late summer.

This goes along with previously announced for Marvel-themed lands in Disneyland Paris and Hong Kong Disneyland.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Tickets Now on Sale for Not-So-Scary and Very Merry Christmas Parties:

As we begin the spring season today, we were reminded yesterday how quickly the seasons go by. Party dates for Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party and Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party were officially announced along with tickets going on sale for each of the parties. 

Weeks ago it was rumored that Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party would start earlier than ever in the middle of August and yesterday those rumors were confirmed with the very first party date being announced as August 17. The rest of the dates are as follows:

• August 17, 24, 28 and 31
• September 3, 7, 9, 11, 14, 16, 18, 21, 23, 25, 28, and 30
• October 2, 4, 5, 8, 9, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 19, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30, and 31

Tickets for the party will be $75 in advance and $85 if tickets are purchased the date of the party. 

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party will delight guests during the most wonderful time of year for 22 nights this year. Parties will begin November 8 and will run through most nights until December 21. Here is the full list of party dates:

• November 8, 9, 12, 13, 15, 16, 25, 27, 29, 30
• December 2, 4, 6, 7, 9, 11, 13, 14, 16, 18, 20, 21

Tickets for the party will be $95 in advance and $105 if tickets are purchased on same day as the party. Guests can purchase tickets by calling 407-939-1872.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Walt Disney World Updates from the D23 Expo Japan Last Night

Due to some extenuating circumstances last night I didn't get to share all the news that was shared last night/or this morning at the D23 Expo Japan by Disney Parks & Resorts President Bob Chapek. Although as much as we were hoping to hear an official opening date for Toy Story Land at Disney's Hollywood Studios, that was not to be as it was not announced. We are still in the dark as to when it will open even though the long heard rumors still remain as Memorial Day weekend are as strong as ever.

Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway will open sometime in 2019 and we got some new concept art (seen above) along with some new details on the ride. It will feature a brand new catchy theme songcreated especially for the attraction as well as a new experience that defies logic that we’re calling 2 ½-D. No glasses required.

On the attraction, the fun begins when guests will see the premiere of a new cartoon short with Mickey and Minnie getting ready for a picnic. As they head out, they drive alongside a train and find out that the engineer is Goofy. Then, one magical moment lets you step into the movie and on Goofy’s train for a wacky, wild ride.

Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway will put guests inside the wacky and unpredictable world of a Mickey Mouse Cartoon Short where they're the star and anything can happen.

Also opening in 2019 will be Star Wars: Galaxies Edge at Disney's Hollywood Studios, but that wasn't the news they strove for as we got more details on the most-immersive resort that will be built on a Disney Parks property. The new Star Wars' themed resort will combine luxury and complete immersion into the Star Wars Universe.

Guests will take a multi-day journey by boarding a starship that will be alive with characters and stories that unfold all around them during a voyage through the galaxy. They will become active citizens in the galaxy and even dress in proper attire during their stay. Every resort window will have a view into space. 

The opportunity for immersion at this resort will also stand out among all Disney resorts around the globe, as it will be seamlessly connected to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This will allow for a total Star Wars experience that is out of this world. There is no official opening date for the Star Wars-inspired resort.

It was confirmed a while ago that the Guardians of the Galaxy-inspired attraction coming to Epcot that it would be a roller coaster, last night Bob Chapek officially confirmed that. The one-of-a-kind family attraction will be one of the world’s longest enclosed roller coasters when it’s added to Future World at Epcot. It will feature a unique story created by Walt Disney Imagineering that will 'wow' guests as part of a new innovative ride system. 

 “As we build upon its core mission of optimism and hope to inspire the world, the real will become fantastic and the fantastic will become real—in whole new ways at Epcot,” Bob Chapek, Chairman of Walt Disney Parks & Resorts, said.

This amazing attraction will open in time for Walt Disney World and Magic Kingdom's 50th Anniversary in 2021.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Is This The Opening Date for TRON Lightcycle?; Walt Disney World's 'Incredible Summer at All 4 Parks

Is This The Opening Date for TRON Lightcycle Power Run?

According to recent permit filings, an opening date just may have been revealed for Magic Kingdom's newest coaster in the TRON Lightcycle Power Run. Announced last July at the D23 Expo, the coaster is expected to be done just in time for the park's 50th Anniversary. With this new permit filing that just may be true as filings show that work is expected to be done barring delays will be completed by August 16, 2021.

Work on TRON Lightcycle Power Run is expected to begin this coming week in Tomorrowland on February 6. You can see the attraction which is the same as was built in Shanghai Disneyland ,although it is rumored the one Magic Kingdom is expected to be longer, and its complete run-through below:

Are you as excited as I am for the TRON Lightcycle Power Run coaster coming to the Magic Kingdom? 2021 can't come soon enough.

Walt Disney World's 'Incredible Summer' at All 4 Parks:

We are just a few months away from Summer kicking off at Walt Disney World. Yesterday, several new experiences were announce for the 'Incredible Summer' kicking off at all four parks and Disney Springs. Check out what was announced below:

Magic Kingdom:

The Incredibles will be taking over Tomorrowland for an incredible dance party. Guests can party with Mr. Incredible, Elastigirl, and Frozone from Disney•Pixar’s “The Incredibles” and the soon-to-be blockbuster “Incredibles 2.” Edna Mode, the greatest superhero costume designer, will also make her debut appearance. Each evening, guests can enjoy a “SUPER” dance party on the Rocket Tower Stage. [NOTE: Disney•Pixar’s “Incredibles 2” opens in theaters June 15, 2018.]

Epcot:

Guardians of the Galaxy featuring Star-Lord and Gamora and be joined by an alien band will be taking the stage this Summer at Epcot. The party will feature hits from Awesome Mixtapes 1 and 2 – fun and favorite tunes from the two movies’ soundtracks – building the anticipation for a new Epcot Guardians of the Galaxy attraction coming to the park in 2021.

Animal Kingdom:

There will be two new 'incredible' experiences coming just in time for Animal Kingdom's 20th Anniversary. First up, guests will discover new bird species from around the world in the new show, "Explorers Meet UP! A Great Bird Adventure" which stars Senior Wilderness Explorer Russell and Dug. There will also be a 'dino-tastic' celebration where Donald Duck takes over Dinoland, USA in a new character celebration. 

That's not all as beginning tomorrow Jose and Panchito from "The Three Caballeros" will join the Discovery Island Carnivale through May 5. The nightly dance party celebrates the beauty and harmony of all living things in the form of an exuberant dance party that features cheerful music from the Viva Gaia Street Band!, spectacular costumes inspired by the living creatures of the air, land and sea, and more.

Disney's Hollywood Studios

The big hit this summer of course will be Toy Story Land at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Of course no official opening date has been announced, although still expected to be Memorial Day Weekend. Guests can expect to enjoy 2 brand new attractions in Slinky Dog Dash and Alien Swirling Saucers and a new quick service restaurant in Woody's Lunch Box in the new 11-acre land. 

Stay tuned for an official opening date of Toy Story Land which should be announced in the coming days or weeks. 

Source: Disney Parks Blog

The Last Jedi Trailer Coming Tomorrow, Stitch Meet & Greet Opens, and More

"Star Wars: The Last Jedi" Trailer Coming Tomorrow:

The next trailer for "Star Wars: The Last Jedi" is in fact premiering tomorrow during halftime of the Chicago Bears vs. Minnesota Vikings Monday Night Football game on ESPN. Star Wars on its social media pages officially teased the trailer this morning. 

Get ready. Trailer tomorrow. #TheLastJedi pic.twitter.com/woC9KF4GH8

— Star Wars (@starwars) October 8, 2017

Guests visiting Disneyland more specifically Downtown Disney can watch the premiere of the trailer on a giant screen outside of AMC Downtown Disney Theaters 12. The fun will begin at 5 p.m. with a live DJ, trivia, giveaways all while counting down to the premiere of "The Last Jedi" trailer. Tickets for "Star Wars: The Last Jedi" will in fact go on sale officially after the premiere of the trailer.

"Star Wars: The Last Jedi" soars into theaters on December 15.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

New Stitch Meet & Greet Opens Up at Magic Kingdom:

The new Stitch's Alien Encounter Character Greeting officially opened up at Magic Kingdom. The new meet & greet is indeed in the former queue of the current seasonally operating Stitch's Great Escape. 

The hours for the meet & greet will be from 10:30 a.m. until 7 p.m., hours for the character greeting will fluctuate daily. Disney is still saying that Stitch's Great Escape will operate seasonally saying that the ride is not closing for good. 

Rumors have been swirling since last year since the attraction began operating seasonally that the ride would be replaced with possibly a Wreck-It-Ralph attraction. Many expected an announcement during the D23 Expo, but to no avail there was no announcement. Stitch's Great Escape is expected to be replaced before Walt Disney World's and Magic Kingdom's 50th Anniversary in 2021.

Walls Go Up Around Universe of Energy:

It was inevitable that it would happen but walls have officially gone up as of yesterday around the Universe of Energy. Construction has already begun on the new Guardians of the Galaxy rollercoaster that is expected to be completed by 2021. Ellen's Energy Adventure and Universe of Energy closed August 13. 

Source Image: WDW News Today

Jingle Cruise Will Return to Walt Disney World; Guardians Attraction at Epcot Will be a Rollercoaster

Jingle Cruise Will Return to Walt Disney World:

Rumors have been circulating for the last few weeks that the Jingle Cruise wouldn't be returning this holiday season at both Walt Disney World and Disneyland. However, we do now know that it will be returning to Walt Disney World, but the future of the holiday overlay at Disneyland remains unclear. 

The ride will return this November and run through the holidays through January 2018. The holiday overlay wasn't announced with the other holiday offerings but it will return. It does appear though that it will not return to Disneyland at least this year. 

Source: WDW News Today

Guardians of the Galaxy Attraction at Epcot will be Rollercoaster:

During Sunday's 35th Anniversary at Epcot, Vice President of Epcot Melissa Valiquette confirmed that the Guardians of the Galaxy attraction being built in place of the former Universe of Energy pavilion will in fact be a rollercoaster. Long rumored to be a rollercoaster this is in fact the first confirmation that it would be from Disney. 

Source: Blog Mickey

Paradise Pier to Become Pixar Pier & More Changes Coming to Disneyland & Disney California Adventure

While not as big as the news coming out of Walt Disney World, Disneyland and Disney California Adventure will be seeing changes to its parks. First up, was the big news that Paradise Pier will become Pixar Pier at Disney California Adventure in 2018.

Pixar Pier will feature a brand-new look for the area now known as Paradise Pier, as some of your favorite characters come to life on this seaside waterfront. You will discover whimsical neighborhoods filled with your friends from “The Incredibles,” “Inside Out” and even more of your pals from “Toy Story.”

This will be a permanent addition at Disney California Adventure replacing Paradise Pier. It will open during a brand new limited-time event taking place at both Disneyland and Disney California Adventure in 2018 called, "Pixar Fest." 

At Disneyland park, this incredible celebration will feature a brand-new fireworks spectacular as well as the return of the guest favorite, Pixar Play Parade. Over at Disney California Adventure guests will see the return of Paint the Night with a brand new float added. More details on Pixar Pier and Pixar Fest will be coming out in the coming months.

That's not all as this Halloween over in Cars Land, guests will be able to experience the holiday as our favorite characters in the land will be celebrating Halloween. 

Bob Chapek save the biggest news for last at Disney California Adventure where a new Marvel-themed land will be built at the park. 

Guardians of the Galaxy have already invaded the park with Mission: BREAKOUT! but soon they will be joined by more of our favorite superheroes. Spider-man and the Avengers will join them in a completely new immersive superhero themed land. 

No other details were announced just to stay tuned in the future on more updates about our favorite Marvel Superheroes coming to Disney California Adventure.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Guardians of the Galaxy, Ratatouille, New Space Restaurant, & More Coming to Epcot

We all knew since November that changes were coming to Epcot, we just weren't sure what. Over the last months rumors have been swirling and some were confirmed tonight some seem like they will be announced at a later date. Here is what they announced:

Ratatouille Attraction is Coming to France Pavilion, New Film Coming to China Pavilion:

A new Ratatouille-inspired attraction will be coming to the France Pavilion in World Showcase. It will be similar to the 4-D attraction Ratatouille: The Adventure that opened at the Walt Disney Studios Park in Paris in 2014. Guests will be able to shrink to Remy’s size and scurry to safety in a dazzling chase across a kitchen with the sights, sounds and smells of Gusteau’s legendary Parisian restaurant.

The attraction will expand the pavilion and the good news for many fans is that Impressions de France will remain at the pavilion. The new attraction is expected to be completed in 2021.

Also of note a new film is coming to the China Pavilion almost like a Soarin' type exploration that will take you around the country. No other details were released.

Guardians of the Galaxy Attraction Replacing Universe of Energy Plus Updates to Future World:

We all knew it was coming it was just when. A Guardians of the Galaxy-inspired attraction is coming to Epcot and replacing Ellen's Energy Adventure and the Universe of Energy. The pavilion and Ellen's Energy Adventure will have its final day of operation on August 13, 2017. 

Epcot’s brand new E-ticket attraction will be based on the rockin’ and action-packed world of “Guardians of the Galaxy” and is the next step in how guests can encounter these characters at the Walt Disney World Resort. Epcot just may be the perfect place for a “Guardians”-inspired attraction as you can see in the photo above – Peter Quill (aka Star Lord) actually visited Epcot as a kid! The attraction is also expected to be completed by 2021.

That's not all as Future World will see a major overhaul to the whole are as seen in this concept art.

Mission: Space which saw its refurbishment extended recently will have two new missions when it opens back up. This led to talk about the other breaking news.

New Space Restaurant to Placed Right Next to Mission: Space:

A brand new restaurant experience is coming to Epcot with a space theme. The restaurant will be built adjacent to Mission: Space and will invite guests to travel into space for an amazing dining experience in the stars.

Disney Imagineer Tom Fitzgerald had this to say, "We know our guests love dining at Epcot – and the restaurants really are out of this world. Now we're about to create one that takes that literally."

The new space restaurant will be operated by the Patina Restaurant Group. Patina Restaurant Group operates several other restaurants at Walt Disney World including Tutto Italia and Via Napoli at Epcot and Morimoto Asia at Disney Springs. More details on the new space-themed restaurant will be shared in the future, so stay tuned.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

Take a Premium Cruise Around Crescent Lake & Epcot; Guardians of the Galaxy as Told by Emoji

Take a Premium Cruise Around Crescent Lake & Epcot:

Want to take a cruise around Crescent Lake at Disney's Yacht Club and Epcot. Guests now can beginning June 1 for a price. The "Premium Day Cruise Around the World" will take off from the Bayside Marina aboard a vessel for one hour. Bagged snacks and soft drinks will be provided as well as guests being able to purchase additional items through private dining. Each boat can accommodate up to 10 guests.

So what is the price for this premium cruise around the lake? The cost is $149 per boat for up to 10 guests (plus tax). Guests can call 407-WDW-PLAY to book the "Premium Day Cruise Around the World" now.

Source: WDW News Today

Guardians of the Galaxy as Told by Emoji:

We all have seen several Disney, Pixar and even Star Wars films be told by emoji. Yesterday, Disney gave us a look at what Marvel's "Guardians of the Galaxy" would look like if it it was told by emoji. Check out the adventure of the Guardians now:

Send a message to the stars in #GuardiansOfTheGalaxy As Told By Emoji, presented by @AdobeStudents. 🎶⭐️ pic.twitter.com/y58dEPV3ZS

— Disney (@Disney) May 18, 2017

Meanwhile, "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2" is now in theaters.

D23 Destination D: Amazing Adventures Speculation?

Next weekend is D23 Destination D: Amazing Adventures at Walt Disney World. I am expecting it to be quite busy with some announcements on the parks. Today, I am going to highlight the event where we can hear some announcements such as the opening of Pandora - The World of Avatar at Disney's Animal Kingdom. 

First on Saturday morning right after the welcome we will hear from Bob Chapek, Chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. Here is the description of the panel:

Saturday, November 19 at 9:10 a.m. — A Conversation with Bob ChapekBob Chapek, Chairman, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, will sit down with D23’s Jeffrey Epstein to share his insights on the parks.

While this will be very early in the event, Disney could catch us off guard with an announcement early. I would expect this will just be a highlight of what's is new in the parks that has already opened and not anything major for the future of the parks which I expect to come later during another panel. I would still stay tuned for this one as we should always expect the unexpected.

There will be several other panels that day but nothing of potential for announcements of the parks. There will be a special announcement at 2 p.m. from Walt Disney Studios that I expect we will hear some new movie news.

On Sunday, there are three panels that will be potential for some Disney World announcements. First up will be the "New Walt Disney World Adventures" panel in the morning. Here is the description for that panel:

9:20 a.m. — New Walt Disney World Adventures

Get an insider’s glimpse into the latest experiences across Walt Disney World Resort with behind-the-scenes looks at new entertainment—featuring Walt Disney World Resort Ambassadors Caitlin Busscher and Nathaniel Palma, Entertainment Show Director Tom Vazzana, and Imagineer Wyatt Winter!

Here is where I expect to hear some breaking announcements. One, I expect that if they are giving a special preview of Rivers of Light later that night, I expect to hear some kind of announcement when they will debut the new nighttime spectacular to the public. 

Also, here is where I expect there to be any Marvel announcements for inside the parks whether Guardians of the Galaxy is coming to Hollywood Studios for the rumored re-theming of Rock N' Roller Coaster or in Epcot at Ellen's Energy Adventure. I am also hoping for some news on Toy Story Land and Star Wars Land in this panel.

The second panel that I expect to definitely here some announcement will be later in the morning where we will be hearing new details on Pandora - The World of Avatar at Disney's Animal Kingdom. Here creators James Cameron and Jon Landau along with Imagineer Joe Rohde will reveal new details.

Concept Art for Na'vi River Journey

11:05 a.m. — Pandora – The World of AVATARAVATAR creators James Cameron (writer, director, producer) and Jon Landau (producer) and Imagineer Joe Rohde unveil new details about the immersive, 12-acre land coming soon to Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

Here I expect to hear new details on both new attractions in Avatar: Flight of Passage and the Na'vi River Journey. I also am speculating that we will be hearing an opening date for the new 12-acre land that is expected to open in 2017. 

Finally, there has been much speculation about the about Rivers of Light forever, Destination D will be holding a in-park gathering at the end of the event. This is where rumors have been swirling that D23 members will get an exclusive first look at the new nighttime spectacular. 

What are you hoping is announced during D23 Destination D: Amazing Adventures next weekend?

New DuckTales Logo Revealed; Possible Universe of Energy Closing Date?

New DuckTales Logo Revealed:

Check out the new "DuckTales" logo that Oh My Disney! revealed before tonight's airing of ABC's Dancing with the Stars. Olympic gymnast Laurie Hernandez along with her partner Valentin Chmerkovskiy are dancing to the DuckTales theme song.

The relaunched series will premiere on Disney XD in 2017. The new logo is described as "a thrilling throwback, not only to the original Emmy-winning animated series, but also to the original source material in the comic books written by Carl Banks."

Possible Universe of Energy Closing Date?

Get ready for another outburst from Disney fans because according to rumors a Universe of Energy closing date has been revealed. According to WDW News Today, cast members have been informed that the closing date for Ellen's Energy Adventure in Epcot will be in January 2017.

That attraction will close for what will likely be the rumored Guardians of the Galaxy roller coaster. The announcement that was supposed to be made during the San Diego Comic-Con was delayed. Now, you can look to hear the official announcement within the coming months at Disney World's D23 event, Destination D. This is according to rumblings within the company.

Now of course none of this is official so you can take it with a grain of salt until Disney makes the official announcement. Stay tuned until then though as the rumors continue to grow stronger that we will be saying goodbye very soon to Ellen's Energy Adventure.

Note: This is coming to you as I sit here in my room at Disney's Caribbean Beach. The first two days of this vacation have been absolutely amazing. That is of course besides the rain that has been pretty wicked. Blogs for the rest of week will be by chance of whether I'm in the room enough. They will resume back to normal next week along with some extra special trip report blogs. 

Mickey's Backyard BBQ Now Offering Category 1 & 2 Seating Options; Guardians Confirmed for "Infinity War"

Mickey's Backyard BBQ Now Offering Category 1 & 2 Seating Options:

Mickey's Backyard BBQ at Disney's Fort Wilderness has begun offering Category 1 & 2 seating options. For $10 more per person, guests enjoying the all-you-can-eat buffet with the Category 1 option guests will now be offered:

• Early access to the Backyard Pavilion
• Priority seating that gets you closer to the action
• Character greeting with Mickey and friends prior to the show
• Plus early access to all the food and beverages

Pricing for Category 1 is $72 for ages 10 & older and $47 for children ages 3 to 9. Category 2 seating option is $62 dollars for guests ages 10 & older and $37 for children ages 3 to 9. 

Prepayment is required at the time of booking and does include tax and gratuity. Guests using the Disney Dining Plan will be required to use 2 table service credits for both Category 1 & 2 seating options.

Source ChipandCo.com

Guardians of the Galaxy Confirmed for "Infinity War":

"Guardians of the Galaxy" star Vin Diesel confirmed in live stream on his personal Facebook page on Friday that the Guardians would in fact be in Marvel's "Infinity War," the next installment of the Avengers franchise. Diesel is the voice of Groot, everybody's favorite dancing super hero tree.

Diesal had this to say during the live broadcast, "Now the Guardians will be included in Avengers: Infinity War and that's incredibly exciting." He added, "You were told before everybody."

Now before "Infinity War," Groot and the rest of the Guardians will appear in the sequel to the hit Marvel film with "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2" which hit theaters May 5, 2017. "Avengers: Infinity War" is scheduled to be released the following May on May 4, 2018. 

Universe of Energy to be Replaced with Guardians Roller Coaster?; Disney Parks Moms Panel Search 2017

Universe of Energy to be Replaced with Guardians Roller Coaster?:

WDW News Today has received an update on the rumor that began last month that Universe of Energy would be replaced with a "Guardians of the Galaxy" attraction. Today, they revealed that the pavilion inside Epcot's Future World would be demolished and a new "Guardians of the Galaxy" roller coaster will be built.

The roller coaster would feature both elaborate scenes and a long roller coaster portion that is very similar to the rumored Captain America coaster for Disney California Adventure. Right now though any rendering that are being kept secret by imagineering do not feature the name Marvel or "Guardians of the Galaxy. This is due to the fact of the legal restrictions that Disney has of building any Marvel attractions in Disney World. 

Of course Guardians of the Galaxy wasn't part of the Marvel deal when Disney bought the rights. Hence, the reason this attraction would be able to be built at Epcot. Disney of course has not made any official announcements but one might expect an announcement could be coming within the next few months. 

I sure will miss Universe of Energy, while it is outdated, I maybe one of the few that enjoyed the attraction. No, I didn't enjoy it because it allowed me to nap but for the memories of when I was a child and seeing those giant animatronic dinosaurs for the first time. Now, I enjoy it because who doesn't love Ellen and Bill Nye the Science Guy. 

Disney Parks Moms Panel Search 2017:

The Disney Parks Moms Panel announced today that they would begin their search for new panelists for 2017 beginning next month on September 7, 2016. Here are the details released this morning on the Disney Parks Blog:

The application window will open at 12:00 p.m. EST on Wednesday, September 7, 2016 and close at 12:00 p.m. EST on Wednesday, September 14, 2016. The first round application process includes short essay questions, basic information questions, and a sample question similar to what you’d find on the Disney Parks Moms Panel website.
This September marks the 10th year of the annual search for new panelists. The first Moms Panel search launched in September 2007 and since then more than 140 moms, dads, grandparents have helped other guests with decisions and planning logistics around all types Disney vacations.
The Disney Parks Moms Panel focuses on nearly every type of Disney vacation including Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Vacation Club, runDisney and events at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. And because the site is available in four languages, we hope to find panelists fluent in Portuguese, French, and Spanish.

Will you be applying to be apart of the 2017 Disney Parks Moms Panel? 

Guardians of the Galaxy - Mission BREAKOUT! Coming to Disney California Adventure

Rumors have been circulation for months now that Tower of Terror in Disney California Adventure would be closing and a new Guardians of the Galaxy attraction would be taking its place. Those rumors have now been confirmed at tonight's Marvel Studios panel at San Diego Comic-Con. Marvel President Kevin Feige along with Disney Imagineer Legend Joe Rohde announced that Guardians of the Galaxy - Mission BREAKOUT! will be coming to Disney California Adventure in Summer 2017.

Concept Art from Disney Imagineering

Here is the announcement from Joe Rohde himself:

Concept Art from Disney Imagineering

Here is the description for Guardians of the Galaxy - Mission BREAKOUT! from the Disney Parks Blog:

"Deep inside his fortress-like collection, the mysterious Taneleer Tivan (aka The Collector) is displaying his newest acquisitions, the Guardians of the Galaxy. They are trapped in customized display cases, suspended over a vast abyss. Unbeknownst to their unscrupulous captor, the intrepid Rocket has escaped and is enlisting the Collector’s VIP guests for help. Guests board a gantry lift, which launches them into a chaotic and hilarious adventure as they join Rocket in an attempt to break his fellow Guardians out of captivity."

Concept Art from Disney Imagineering

That's not all as the ride will be bordering on what will eventually become an expanded Marvel Land at Disney California Adventure. Hurry up and ride Tower of Terror at DCA as it will close in early 2017 as the new attraction is expected to be opening by next Summer. Now we wait to see if Disney gets cleared to build any Marvel attractions in Florida, as rumors have been surrounding Universe of Energy at Epcot. 

Stay tuned for more information on the Guardians of the Galaxy attraction and the future Marvel Land coming to Disney California Adventure right here on It All Started With a Mouse.

Rumors, Rumors Everywhere: What Could be Coming to Disney World; Will Disneyland Forever be Discontinued?

Rumors are brewing at both Epcot and Magic Kingdom. Today, WDW News Today and Blog Mickey certainly got the internet rumbling about certain attractions coming to Epcot, most likely a "Guardians of the Galaxy" overlay somewhere in Future World.

It comes down to two rumored locations and while nothing has been announced or confirmed it does seem plausible that where they could put the new attraction would definitely work. WDW News Today is reporting the Mission: SPACE would be getting the overlay from the Marvel superheroes in a similar attraction to the TRON: Lightcycle Power Run that just opened over in Shanghai Disneyland. 

On Blog Mickey, the rumor is that we could soon be saying goodbye to Ellen's Energy Adventure (I am weeping a little on this one) in which Disney pours millions into the new ride. They had no word on what type of attraction would be. They did say that it would be Phase 2 of a project in which Phase 1 would focus on Innoventions. 

While this just a rumor and nothing is confirmed it does seem like Disney is testing the IP market after the recent success of the "Frozen Ever After" attraction in the Norway pavilion that just opened last week.

The next rumor up is once again being reported by WDW News Today, that The Muppets are coming to Liberty Square at Magic Kingdom in a new attraction. It has not yet been announced by Disney yet but testing is apparently imminent. 

Here is what they are hearing:

"The rather lengthy facade refurbishment of the Heritage House seems to have been for this new attraction which will have The Muppets teaching and interacting with guests concerning U.S. history. The Muppets characters, which were reportedly built in a collaboration between the Jim Henson company and Walt Disney Imagineering, will be appearing high above guests in the second story windows of Liberty Square."

There is no other info out at this time but stay tuned as I'm sure we will be getting some news from Disney on the new Muppets attraction if the rumors are true. Not sure about "The Guardians of the Galaxy" overlay as those are just rumors at this point in time.

Will Disneyland Forever Fireworks be Discontinued?:

The Disneyland 60th Diamond Celebration will officially end on September 5th, but will the Disneyland Forever fireworks show also be going away that day. The original rumor that the spectacular fireworks show would be discontinued at the end of the celebration due to budget cuts, first reported by WDWNT. 

Today however, WDW Info (The DIS) is reporting that it may not be discontinued just because of budget cost but due to the current launch area for the fireworks in Toontown. The rumor indicates that guests visiting Disneyland may not enjoy fireworks at the park for at least 6 months. This would allow Disney to build a new launch site. 

Disney has not commented on what will happen to Disneyland Forever so this remains just a rumor as it stands. As always stay tuned on It All Started With a Mouse for all your Disney rumors, news, and all other things Disney. 

Spring Issue of Disney twenty-three Dives Inside Walt Disney Animation, El Capitan Announces Special Guests for Disney Animation Festival, and More

Spring Issue of Disney twenty-three Dives Inside Walt Disney Animation Studios:

The Spring issue of Disney twenty-three dives inside Walt Disney Animation Studios as it looks at the creative talents of the writers, directors, producers, and animators that have driven a wave of superior filmmaking. Here is the release from D23 on what's in the Spring issue:

In the 10 years since John Lasseter and Ed Catmull took over the reins of what is now Walt Disney Animation Studios, Disney has enjoyed incredible creative and box office success with such films as Tangled, Wreck-It Ralph, Big Hero 6, and, of course, Frozen. The spring 2016 issue of Disney twenty-three looks at the creative talents—from writers and directors to producers and animators—who have driven this wave of superior filmmaking that has resulted in two Academy Awards® for Best Animated Feature for the studio.

Disney twenty-three, available exclusively to D23 Gold Members, includes exclusive interviews with Lasseter and Catmull, as well as the teams behind Walt Disney Animation Studios’ run of hits, discussing the secrets behind their work and how a Disney animated film goes from concept to creation. Plus, Disney twenty-three unveils rarely seen visual development art created for the Studio’s most recent films. There are also advance looks at the upcoming animated films Zootopia—including a revealing one-on-one with star Ginnifer Goodwin—and Moana.

In addition to the animation celebration, the issue offers a sneak peek of Captain America: Civil War, featuring exclusive interviews with star Chris Evans and one of the film’s directors, Joe Russo. And director Jon Favreau details the incredible work behind crafting the stunning live-action adaptation of The Jungle Book, including how he snared Bill Murray to voice Baloo the bear.

Also included in the spring issue of Disney twenty-three:
Three cheers for the 10-year anniversary of High School Musical, including interviews with the director and members of the cast
A look at the colorful concept art from the 1967 animated hit The Jungle Book, with stories from Disney Legend Floyd Norman, who worked with Walt Disney on the film
A walk through Walt Disney’s office suite on the Studio lot, recently restored by the Walt Disney Archives
Regular features including A Walk with Walt, D Society, and Ask Dave

Disney twenty-three, which is delivered directly to fans’ doorsteps, is offered exclusively to D23 Gold and Gold Family Members as a benefit of their membership. The latest issue will begin arriving in late February.

El Capitan Theatre Announces Special Guests for Disney Animation Festival:

Last month, it was announced that the El Capitan Theatre would be holding a Disney Animation Festival leading up to the release of Disney's next animated film, "Zootopia." Today, the theatre announced the special guests to appear at each film in a special presentation with discussions on the films. Each film will have multiple showings each day but the 7 p.m. showing will have the presentation. Here is the impressive list

February 18 - "Wreck-It-Ralph" - Director Rich Moore

February 19 - "Frozen" - Directors Chris Buck and Jennifer Lee

February 20 - "Tangled" - Voice Talent Mandy Moore and Director Nathan Greno

February 21 - "Big Hero 6" - Voice Talents Scott Adsit and Ryan Potter, Director Chris Williams, and Producer Roy Conli

February 22 - "Bolt" - Director Chris Williams

February 23 - "Winnie the Pooh" - Voice Talent Jim Cummings and Producer Peter Del Vecho

February 24 - "The Princess and the Frog" - Voice Talents Anika Noni Rose, Jim Cummings, and Michael Leon-Wooley - Directors John Musker and Ron Clements

Everyone in attendance for the panels will receive beautiful pieces of artwork created specifically for the films. Additionally, the first 75 guests will get to meet with the filmmakers who will autograph the artwork. Each of the films will be screened at 10:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m., and 7:00 p.m.

"Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2" Begins Production, First Picture Tease Released:

Principal photography has begun on "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2" at Pinewood Studios in Atlanta. With the beginning of photography Marvel released the first photo featuring our heroes including a Baby Groot standing on Drax's shoulder. The sequel is set to the music of Awesome Mixtape #2 will hit theaters next year on May 5, 2017. 

The sequel is once again directed by James Gunn and returns stars Chris Pratt (Peter Quill/Star-Lord),  Zoe Saldana (Gamora), Dave Bautista (Drax), Vin Diesel (Groot), Bradley Cooper (Rocket Raccoon), Michael Rooker (Yondu), Karen Gillan (Nebula), and Sean Gunn (Kraglin). The film also has some new stars to add to the list including Kurt Russell (Furious 7, The Hateful Eight), Chris Sullivan (The Knick, The Drop), Elizabeth Debicki (Everest, The Great Gatsby), and Pom Klementieff (Old Boy).